If you've ever fallen down an internet rabbit hole trying to understand domain names or web hosting, you're not alone. Between the tech jargon, conflicting advice, and too-good-to-be-true deals, it's easy to believe things that just aren't true. So today, we're busting the most common "Did you know?" myths that cause confusion, cost money, and hold back small businesses from launching online with confidence.
Let’s set the record straight.
1. You Must Buy Hosting and Domain from the Same Company
Did you know? Your domain name and your web hosting don’t have to come from the same place.
That’s the truth — they’re two separate services. Your domain is your website’s address, and your hosting is where the website files actually live. Keeping them together in one account can be super convenient, which is why many people prefer it. But if you’ve already registered your domain elsewhere or want to host with another provider, that’s totally fine too.
At Rebel, we offer both because we believe in options. Want everything in one place with easy tools and real support? We’ve got you. Prefer to mix and match? Go for it. We’re here to support your online presence, whatever path you choose.
2. All Domains Cost the Same
Nope. Not even close.
Domain prices can vary wildly based on the extension (like .com vs. .ca), the registrar’s pricing, and how desirable the name is. Premium domains — short, memorable names — can go for thousands of dollars. Meanwhile, a lesser-known extension might cost under $10.
Also, don't forget to budget for renewals, domain privacy protection, and ownership safeguards. These aren’t hidden fees — just smart add-ons to keep your online identity safe.
3. Free Hosting is a Good Long-Term Option
Free hosting might sound like a great deal — until your site loads slowly, gets hit with ads you didn’t approve, or just… disappears.
Free plans often come with major limitations: tiny storage, bandwidth caps, no support, and zero control over your own files. Worse, your site may not look professional with a third-party-branded URL (like yourbiz.freehost.com).
If you're serious about your online presence, investing in affordable and reliable hosting options is worth every penny.
4. Once You Buy a Domain, It’s Yours Forever
We wish! But unfortunately, domain ownership is like a subscription — you need to renew it.
Most domains are registered for one to ten years. If you forget to renew, you risk losing your domain. It could even get snapped up by someone else the second it expires.
That’s why features like auto-renewal and domain expiry protection are so important. Think of them as insurance for your digital address.
5. Your Website Will Be Fine Without SSL
Would you leave your house unlocked with a “come on in” sign? That’s kind of what it’s like running a site without SSL.
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encrypts the connection between your site and its visitors. It builds trust, protects data, and even helps your Google ranking. Without it, your site may show as “Not Secure” in browsers — a big red flag for visitors.
Get SSL protection to secure your site and your reputation.
6. Shared Hosting is Always a Bad Choice
Shared hosting gets a bad rap, but it’s not always the villain.
Yes, you share server resources with other sites — but that doesn't mean poor performance if you choose the right provider. For small to medium websites, shared hosting is often the most cost-effective and efficient option.
The key is support, speed, and security. And Rebel’s shared hosting delivers on all three.
7. You Only Need One Email Address
Technically, you can run your entire business from one email — but should you?
Having multiple professional email addresses (like info@, support@, yourname@) helps you stay organized, look credible, and respond faster. You don’t need a massive team — just email that grows with you.
Split the inboxes. Save the stress.
8. Domain Extensions Don’t Matter
Actually, they really do.
Your domain extension (.com, .ca, .net, etc.) signals who you are, where you're located, and what you do. For Canadian businesses, a .CA domain builds local trust and shows customers you’re proudly homegrown. For international businesses, .com is still the gold standard.
Choosing the right domain extension can improve your credibility and help with SEO — so don’t treat it like an afterthought.
9. It Doesn’t Matter Who Your Domain Registrar Is
Oh, but it does.
Your domain registrar is more than just a checkout counter. They manage your DNS settings, offer privacy protection, and help you renew your domain on time. A registrar with poor support or shady pricing can make domain management frustrating — or risky.
10. You Can “Set and Forget” Your Website
Wishful thinking! Websites need regular care to stay healthy.
From updating software and plugins to refreshing content and checking for security issues, a website is like a garden — it needs tending. Neglect it, and you risk broken links, poor performance, or even being hacked.
Regular updates, backups, and support make all the difference.
Ready to Launch Smarter?
Falling for myths can slow your progress and cost more in the long run. But now that you’re myth-savvy, you can make smart, informed choices for your domain and hosting needs.
Need help? Our friendly experts are just a click away. Whether you're shopping for a new domain, want to switch hosting, or just need honest advice, we’re here for it.
Let’s build something great together.
